If you’re in the market for a dinner that’s equal parts easy, elegant, and downright delicious, let me introduce you to my Creamy Chicken Breast Recipe. This dish is living proof that you don’t need a long list of ingredients or hours in the kitchen to whip up something that tastes restaurant-worthy. Juicy chicken breasts are nestled in a dreamy garlic-Parmesan cream sauce, infused with Italian herbs and just enough richness to make every bite memorable. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just sprucing up a weeknight meal, this is one recipe that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Creamy Chicken Breast Recipe really starts with the essentials. Each ingredient brings something unique—be it flavor, luscious texture, or a dash of color—and together, they create a dish that’s comforting yet impressive every time.
- Chicken breasts: Choose boneless, skinless breasts for quicker cooking and lean protein—perfect for soaking up all the creamy sauce.
- Olive oil: Use this for searing; it helps get a golden, flavorful crust on your chicken.
- Butter: Adds rich depth and silkiness to the sauce, making it extra luxurious.
- Garlic: Mince fresh cloves for the best flavor—it brings sharpness and warmth to the cream sauce.
- Heavy cream: This is what gives the sauce its signature velvety smoothness and body.
- Chicken broth: Balances the richness of the cream while boosting savory notes throughout the dish.
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is best—it melts perfectly and amps up the umami wow factor.
- Italian seasoning: A simple way to layer in herby flavors without grabbing every jar in your spice rack.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for bringing everything together and seasoning each layer to perfection.
- Fresh parsley (optional): A sprinkle at the end adds color and a fresh, bright finish.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Breast Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by patting your chicken breasts dry for the best sear. Sprinkle both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, giving each piece a good rub so the flavors can really soak in. This little step goes a long way and is the foundation of a mouthwatering Creamy Chicken Breast Recipe.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, lay in the chicken breasts and let them cook undisturbed for about 5 to 6 minutes per side. You want that gorgeous golden crust—it means flavor! When cooked through, set them aside so you can use all those amazing browned bits for your sauce.
Step 3: Build the Sauce Base
Drop the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. As the butter melts, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for a minute. The aroma alone at this stage is worth every second! Stir often so the garlic sizzles but doesn’t burn.
Step 4: Creamy Sauce Time
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, using your spoon to scrape up any stuck-on bits from the bottom of the pan. Let everything mingle and come to a gentle simmer—you’ll see the sauce begin to thicken after about 3 to 4 minutes, making it irresistibly creamy but not too heavy.
Step 5: Add Parmesan Power
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. It will melt quickly, transforming your sauce into a dreamy, smooth blend. Make sure to keep stirring so everything’s nicely combined and free of clumps. This is when the Creamy Chicken Breast Recipe really comes together.
Step 6: Finish the Chicken
Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Spoon the sauce over the top and let everything simmer together for another 2 to 3 minutes. This final step ensures each bite of chicken is juicy and infused with the garlic-Parmesan flavors we all adore.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Breast Recipe

Garnishes
A flourish of freshly chopped parsley is all you need to make the colors of this dish pop and add a touch of lightness. If you’re feeling extra, a few extra shavings of Parmesan or a light sprinkle of cracked black pepper look beautiful on top just before serving.
Side Dishes
Creamy Chicken Breast Recipe pairs perfectly with just about anything that can help you soak up that luscious sauce. Think buttery mashed potatoes, fluffy white rice, or a bowl of al dente pasta. Looking to keep things light? Try it with steamed veggies or sautéed spinach alongside for balance.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning dinner party plate, slice the chicken breasts on a slight angle and fan them out over a mound of mashed potatoes or pasta, then drizzle generously with the sauce. Or serve family-style, straight from the skillet—everyone loves gathering ’round to scoop up extra sauce right at the table!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cool, store any leftover Creamy Chicken Breast Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep its flavor and texture for up to three days, making it a wonderful option for meal prep or next-day lunches.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze this dish. Place cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container, separating the chicken and sauce if you prefer. For best results, use within two months. Just note that cream-based sauces can separate a bit after freezing, but a quick stir brings it right back.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the chicken and sauce together in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of extra cream or broth if the sauce gets too thick. Avoid using the microwave if possible, as slow reheating keeps the chicken tender and the sauce smooth.
FAQs
Can I substitute chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work beautifully in this Creamy Chicken Breast Recipe. They’re a bit more forgiving and stay juicy, though you may want to adjust cooking time as thighs take a little longer than breasts.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
You can make a dairy-free version by using full-fat coconut milk in place of heavy cream and a plant-based butter alternative. Nutritional yeast can sub in for Parmesan, though the flavor will be a bit different.
What can I use if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
No Italian seasoning? No problem! Combine a pinch each of dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary or simply use your favorite herbs—you can make the Creamy Chicken Breast Recipe uniquely yours.
Can I add vegetables to the sauce?
Definitely! Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes are fantastic additions to the sauce and bring extra color and nutrients to the dish. Just toss them in before you return the chicken to the pan.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Your best bet is to use a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should hit 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have one, cut into the thickest part of the chicken; the juices should run clear, not pink.
Final Thoughts
I hope you feel inspired to give this Creamy Chicken Breast Recipe a try—it’s the kind of meal that feels special enough for company yet easy enough for a cozy night at home. Trust me, once you taste that silky garlic-Parmesan sauce, it will find a permanent spot in your dinner rotation!
Print
Creamy Chicken Breast Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this creamy chicken breast recipe that’s quick and easy to make. Tender chicken breasts cooked to perfection in a rich garlic Parmesan cream sauce. Serve over your favorite side for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Cook the chicken: In a skillet, sear the chicken breasts in olive oil until golden brown and cooked through. Set aside.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter, sauté garlic, then add chicken broth and heavy cream. Simmer until slightly thickened. Stir in Parmesan until smooth.
- Combine and simmer: Return chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over the top, and simmer until heated through.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy hot.
Notes
- Great served over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta.
- Add sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 145mg